I know as far as regulations most fish are not legal. Though common snook and red drum are really nice looking fish, as well as lady fish, Mangrove Snapper,Mullet, Sea Trout and Black drum. They are all saltwater fish but also inhabit brackish and Freshwater. I have seen SNook and redfish and snappers in freshwater springs. They would be awesome fish to keep since they "can" be kept in warm water. Out of those fish the legal ones to keep is lady fish and mullet. You can keep the rest but have to be a certain size.
Anyone keep Florida native fish?
- Thread starter Jox
- Start date
If it were only that easy... Check with fish and wildlife.
Commercial fishing license ( & proof your a commercial fisherman ).
Tax certificate.
Permits ( different permits to catch or obtain vs keep different species ).
Justifiable reason for this venture. (research / educational / commercial and proof of intensions)(backed by institute / university / corporation ).
Proper facilities ( large enogh to accomodate species you are caring for and their food stuffs ) and facility inspections ( including log books and other recordkeeping ) before you stock any fish ( inspections are at their leasure, 30-90 days for first pre-inspection and don't get anything wrong or you may start over (their descretion) ).
If facilities are outdoors and of appreciable size ( depending on your local zoning codes )proper permits for the facility ( including drainage ) from your local building commission / zoning board.
Educational backgroud ( proof of fish husbandtry / vetinary skills ).
Security of facility ( so no one can get in and drown ).
Approved method of capture and proof of same.
Name(s) of procurement facilities (if you will be purchasing specimens ).
That's most of it, it gets complicated after that.
you have all that joe? lol 
i have read the fl fish and game site for months.
they word it difficult
but the way i see it,for freshwater,if its not on the "game fish" list its all good.
only game fish you have to be careful.
bass,good luck,usually anything under 12 or 14 inches has to go back.
bluegill and suns,50 bag limit,no size limit,only on rod and reel unless you have a permit for the other ways.
i have the lists if anyone wants to see.its on the web too
i have read the fl fish and game site for months.
they word it difficult
but the way i see it,for freshwater,if its not on the "game fish" list its all good.
only game fish you have to be careful.
bass,good luck,usually anything under 12 or 14 inches has to go back.
bluegill and suns,50 bag limit,no size limit,only on rod and reel unless you have a permit for the other ways.
i have the lists if anyone wants to see.its on the web too